Kale is an ancient form of cabbage, and over the years it has become a trendy part of the health food craze. The nutritional benefits of kale are numerous, and many recommend it as part of a balanced diet. Kale smoothies are popular, but can kale be frozen for smoothies?
The short answer is ‘yes’, it is perfectly safe to freeze kale for later use in smoothies. When kale is frozen, it protects the structure of the plant and leaves, meaning that the valuable nutrients are preserved. However, it is important to freeze kale correctly, or it could develop ice crystals which greatly affect the taste. Any kale for smoothies that is meant to be frozen should be bought fresh, washed, stemmed and blanched, then spread on a baking sheet and frozen . This will help to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Kale that has been frozen correctly will maintain its taste and texture when thawed and blended for smoothies. In some respects, it may even be more beneficial than using fresh kale, as antioxidants are believed to be present in a higher concentration after freezing.
When choosing a frozen kale for smoothies, the purchaser should consider the way it is prepared. Frozen kale which has been stored for a long time can have a tougher texture than freshly frozen kale. Choosing a brand of freeze-dried kale which has been frozen within a few days of packaging is usually the best choice.
For convenience, many health food stores now stock pre-frozen packages of kale which are specifically aimed at smoothies. This cuts down on the time consuming process of freezing kale at home.
Nutritionists recommend adding frozen kale to smoothies for a source of antioxidants and minerals. These include calcium, iron, magnesium, vitamin A and vitamin K. Consuming these nutrients through frozen kale is considered to be beneficial to overall health, and can help protect against some diseases.
However, there have been some reports of frozen kale having a bitter taste if it has been stored for too long. As with all produce, nutrition content can vary depending on the source. It is wise to research the source before buying frozen kale for smoothies.
How to Use Kale in Smoothies
Once purchased, frozen kale is conveniently ready to use in smoothies, though it is recommended to thaw it first. The best way to thaw frozen kale is to simply put it in the refrigerator overnight. Recipes for smoothies using frozen kale usually recommend taking a handful of the thawed kale and adding it to a liquid such as almond milk, coconut milk, or even water. Then, adding favourite fruits and other ingredients, blend until smooth.
Kale which has been frozen can be stored in the freezer for up to six months, so it’s a great way to have a supply at hand when needed. For extra convenience, the pre-frozen packages come in both large and small sizes, so the right amount can be purchased for the amount of smoothie preparation required.
Health Benefits of Frozen Kale in Smoothies
The purported health benefits of frozen kale for smoothies are numerous. Many nutritionists believe that it is a great way to get extra essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin K, folic acid, and iron. They also claim that it is a good source of antioxidants, which protect the body from free radical damage.
It is also believed to be beneficial for digestion. Kale contains fibre which helps to keep the digestive system working efficiently, and which can help to prevent constipation. For this reason, many nutritionists recommend that kale smoothies be included as part of a balanced diet.
In addition, some nutritionists claim that including frozen kale in smoothies can help to reduce inflammation, and fight off chronic conditions such as arthritis. This is because frozen kale contains flavonoids, which are believed to be helpful in reducing inflammation caused by chronic conditions.
Finally, frozen kale is a good choice for smoothie preparation, especially for those who have an aversion to the taste and texture of fresh kale. Based on studies, it seems that frozen kale smoothies have the same nutritional content and health benefits as fresh kale smoothies – despite its icy texture.
Safety Considerations
Although frozen kale is a great option for those looking to make smoothies, it requires some safety considerations. According to dietary experts, it is important to buy pre-frozen kale that has been stored properly. This is to prevent the possibility of contracting parasites from kale which has not been thoroughly cooked. Generally, pre-frozen kale has been cooked and blanched in order to ensure safety.
The National Institute of Food and Agriculture also advises that kale should be cooked before it is added to a smoothie. Even pre-frozen kale, which has been cooked, should be cooked before drinking to help make it easier to digest, and to make sure all parasites are killed.
It is also important to note that while kale is safe to freeze, its nutritional content can be affected if it is not frozen properly. To make sure it retains optimal nutrition, it is wise to freeze kale as soon as it is purchased, and to use it within six months of purchase. This applies to both fresh or pre-frozen kale.
Can Kale Smoothies Affect Blood Sugar?
Smoothies that contain frozen kale may provide some health benefits, but can they affect blood sugar? It appears that in some cases, they can. Kale is a vegetable that is high in carbohydrates, so adding it to a smoothie can increase the amount of carbohydrates in the drink.
For this reason, those who suffer from diabetes may wish to limit their consumption of kale smoothies, and substitute ingredients that are lower in carbohydrates. In some cases, it may be wise for diabetics to avoid drinking kale smoothies altogether.
On the other hand, smoothies made with frozen kale may be beneficial to those who struggle with low blood sugar. Kale is rich in essential minerals, including magnesium and calcium, which can help to regulate blood sugar levels. These vitamins and minerals can also help to maintain a healthy metabolism.
Are There Alternatives to Kale for Smoothies?
While frozen kale may be a convenient and beneficial way to include nutrient-rich vegetables in smoothies, there are other options. Spinach, Swiss chard, and collard greens are all excellent sources of antioxidants and essential vitamins and minerals. They can all be frozen for smoothie preparation, and offer the same benefits as frozen kale.
If these greens are not available, there are other sources of fruit and vegetables which can be blended into smoothies. Carrots, apples, oranges, and beans all contain essential vitamins, and can be included in recipes for smoothies.
Finally, some health food stores now stock pre-frozen packages of mixed greens which can be used for making smoothies. This is an easy and convenient way to include a variety of vegetables in smoothies, and to get all the benefits of kale in one package.
Are Wholegrain Cereals a Good Addition to Kale Smoothies?
Wholegrain cereals are a great addition to any smoothie. These cereals are packed with fibre and essential vitamins, and can help to keep the digestive system operating efficiently. Wholegrain cereals are also a source of energy, and can help to keep blood sugar levels stable throughout the day.
Adding wholegrain cereals to a smoothie containing frozen kale can also help to make it more filling and satisfying. This is useful if the smoothie is being used as a meal replacement drink. Adding a handful of wholegrain cereals to the smoothie can help to create a nutritious, balanced snack or meal.
In addition, wholegrain cereals can be used with fresh green, frozen green, or pre-frozen smoothie packets, so they can be added to any smoothie recipe.
Flexibility of Kale Smoothies
Kale smoothies are becoming a popular choice for health-conscious consumers, and they can be enjoyable and nourishing. With the convenience of pre-frozen packages, it’s easy to incorporate frozen kale into smoothies whenever needed.
In addition, smoothies made with frozen kale can be easily customized for
